The Abtenauer is a horse breed of German extraction. An easy trotter, it is particularly graceful and fluid in its movements. Although of average size, the Abtenauer is a draft horse and accustomed to pulling heavy loads on mountainous terrain like many of the European draft animals. Unfortunately, the Abtenauer has become a rare breed.

History

The Abtenauer is a German-blooded horse but it was bred and raised near Salzburg, Austria; more specifically, the Abtenau valley from which it got its name. According to records, around a 100 Abtenauer mares were bred in this valley and used for hauling heavy loads up the mountains.

The Abtenauer is also said to be related to the Noriker horse breed — another known breed in Austria, the roots of which can be traced back to Greece — although the Abtenauer is lighter in build. The Abtenauer is considered to be the smallest variant of this breed.